A Portishead bank will be shut for several weeks before reopening as a ‘micro branch’.

Lloyds Bank, in High Street, closed temporarily on Friday to remove its counters and replace them with self-service machines.

However, it has been accused of being ‘arrogant’ and leaving customers in the lurch by telling them to travel six miles to Nailsea until it reopens on December 4.

A Lloyds spokesman said: “The way people choose to do their banking is changing, so we are adapting too. We regularly review how our branches are used and look for ways to tailor the services we offer more closely to our customers’ needs.

“So, in December, we’re changing the formats and services at some of our branches, including the Portishead branch.”

The main physical difference will be the loss of counters, with ‘easy-to-use tablets and self-service equipment’ being introduced. Lloyds say staff will be on hand to help customers get used to the technology.

But there will be some service changes too, with a ‘micro branch’ in operation instead.

Its spokesman said: “When we reopen, the branch will look and feel different. Customers will still be able to do most things but some services, such as paying in or withdrawing coins and making bull payments using Bank Giro Credit, will no longer be available.”

Lloyds customer Stephen Woodley has complained to Lloyds about the plan.

He said: “The initial statement concerning ‘the way people choose to do their banking’ is nothing but arrogant rubbish.

“And it has the nerve to say that while the branch is closed for alterations, Nailsea’s branch may be used. Sorry if I sound sarcastic but Nailsea is six miles away over a hill and for elderly people without transport – and there are many customers in that category – it will be impossible to use that facility.”

Lloyds said opening hours and staffing numbers at the revamped branch will stay the same.

Its spokesman said: “Branches are a vital part of our strategy, and we’re investing in our network to ensure it evolves to meet the changing needs of customers.

“As part of this, we are testing some different types of branches, in line with customer and colleague feedback, to ensure they provide local communities with the right support.”